A slave under punishment (Just because He refuse to be called by an English name)

A Slave Under Punishment (Just Because He Refuse to be Called by an English Name): A Testament to Cultural Resistance

This poignant acrylic on canvas painting, titled "A Slave Under Punishment (Just Because He Refuse to be Called by an English Name)" by Ghanaian artist Kwesi Sarkodie, captures a stark scene of defiance and the struggle for identity during the transatlantic slave trade. Curated from Ghana, this piece depicts a lone African slave chained to a tree, his body bound, but his spirit unbroken.

Historical Significance and Cultural Relevance:

The act of stripping enslaved Africans of their names and replacing them with European names was a common tactic used to erase their identities and assert dominance.¹ This practice aimed to sever ties with their past, their culture, and their sense of self, forcing them into a new identity defined by their enslavers.

This artwork portrays the resistance against this dehumanizing practice. The slave, chained to a tree, represents the physical confinement and oppression endured by those who were captured. However, his refusal to relinquish his name symbolizes a powerful act of defiance, a clinging to his heritage and his sense of self in the face of adversity.

The painting may depict the slave in a posture that conveys both suffering and resistance. His expression might reflect a range of emotions, from pain and anger to determination and a refusal to be broken. The tree itself can be interpreted as a symbol of resilience, rootedness, and a connection to the African landscape.

This artwork resonates with the historical struggles of African people to maintain their cultural identity in the face of oppression. It highlights the importance of names as markers of identity and the dehumanizing impact of stripping individuals of their names and cultural heritage.

"A Slave Under Punishment (Just Because He Refuse to be Called by an English Name)" is not just a visually striking artwork; it's a powerful statement about the importance of cultural identity and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. By owning this piece, you'll be bringing a piece of Ghana's complex history into your home, prompting reflection and dialogue about the enduring legacy of slavery and the ongoing struggle for cultural preservation and recognition.